Soapstone carving

Quoted text begins.However, I
have just discovered that at the college we have numerous blocks of
soapstone available to use. I have never carved soapstone before and would
appreciate any tips on the particulars of carving it. I've heard that it can
be carved even with a knife.
End of quote.

I've carved soapstone with a regular X-acto knife, with my Boy Scout
pocketknife, with woodcarving chisels, and with a carpenter's chisel.
Removed tool marks simply by sanding. Know of another who uses grinding bits
to carve it. Its the only stone I've worked with thus far (other than
knapping flint, anyway), loved it.

Jerry Veneziano
Blacksmith
Williamsburg, VA